Hello
Yoon Ji Hoo settled into the small dining table nestled in Jan Di's cozy apartment, a palpable tension emanating from him that felt like an almost electric charge in the air. The room itself was warm and inviting, exuding a comforting atmosphere enhanced by the fragrant aroma of freshly brewed tea mingling with the scent of homemade flatbread drifting in from the kitchen. Despite the inviting surroundings, the comforting notes of warmth and familiarity did little to alleviate the growing burden weighing heavily on his shoulders. For weeks on end, he had been relentlessly pursuing the elusive and formidable figure of David Andrews—widely recognized in the global business arena as "the Emperor"—a man whose vast empire stretched across continents and whose decisions had the power to sway entire markets. Yet no matter how hard Ji Hoo tried, Andrews seemed perpetually out of reach, an enigma wrapped in layers of distance and indifference. He had tirelessly sent proposal after proposal detailing his vision and made countless phone calls seeking a connection, but each attempt to arrange a meeting with Andrews had been met with an unnerving silence that only deepened his frustration.
As he sat there, his grandfather's voice reverberated in his mind, thick with disappointment and the weight of expectation. "Without David Andrews' investment, the cancer ward expansion is dead in the water. We can't hope to save lives without this crucial funding, Ji Hoo. The stakes are too high; we need to secure this." Those words seemed to hang in the air, amplifying the pressure that felt increasingly unbearable with each passing moment. The weight of that responsibility had transformed from mere expectation into a crushing burden, one he could scarcely bear.
Breaking the silence, Ji Hoo finally stated, his voice low and tinged with frustration, "I can't get him to schedule a meeting. I've tried everything." As his hands clenched into fists on the table, his knuckles turned a stark white against his skin, reflecting the turmoil churning within him. "What's the point of having all that wealth if he is unwilling to use it to help the people who are in desperate need of it the most? It hardly seems right."
Seo Eun-gi, who was seated beside him, sensed the turmoil radiating from him and reached out gently to place her hand over his. Her touch was both warm and grounding, a reassuring gesture that conveyed understanding and comfort. Looking into his troubled eyes, she spoke softly, her voice calm yet imbued with certainty, as if she possessed the key to an important secret. "David Andrews Emmanuel didn't come to Seoul for business meetings, Ji Hoo," she said, her tone steady and reassuring, aiming to provide him some measure of clarity amid his frustration.
Ji Hoo turned his gaze toward her, a deeper frown etching itself onto his features as confusion clouded his mind. "What do you mean by that? If not for business, then why would he be here?" He was taken aback, struggling to comprehend the implications of her words.
Eun-gi paused, momentarily contemplating the wisdom of divulging more of her thoughts as she weighed the potential impact on Ji Hoo. Finally, she leaned in closer, lowering her voice as if sharing a secret that could illuminate the overwhelming darkness surrounding him. "He came here for someone, Ji Hoo. Not for a business deal." Her words hung in the air, laden with significance, leaving Ji Hoo to grapple with the realization that the path to securing the vital investment he so desperately needed might lie in understanding the personal motives behind Andrews' presence in the city.
Ga Eul sat cross-legged on the floor beside Yi Jeong, her brow furrowed deeply in confusion as she attempted to comprehend the weighty implications of the conversation. "For someone?" she repeated, trying to grasp the situation fully. "Who exactly are you talking about?"
Eun-gi glanced furtively around the room, ensuring that no one else was within earshot, before lowering her voice to a near whisper that barely made it past her lips. "His wife," she revealed, her tone laced with secrecy and a hint of urgency.
A stunned silence enveloped the room, wrapping around them like a thick fog. Even the previously rhythmic clinking of kitchen utensils as Jan Di hustled about preparing meals came to an abrupt halt, almost as if the universe itself paused to absorb the shock of the revelation.
"His wife?" Ga Eul exclaimed, her eyes widening dramatically in disbelief. "David Andrews Emmanuel is married? I had no idea."
"He was," Eun-gi clarified slowly as she took a deliberate sip of her tea, allowing the warmth to settle before continuing. "She left him three years ago, and when she did, she took their son with her. Ever since that day, he has been tirelessly searching for them, hoping to reunite."
The air in the room seemed to thicken, as if they were all collectively holding their breath, each person grappling with the staggering new information laid before them. The realization that David Andrews, known as the Emperor in the business world, a man dominated by power and wealth, had been abandoned by his wife cast an entirely new light on his character.
"She left him?" Ga Eul asked incredulously, her voice filled with disbelief and concern. "But why would she do such a thing?"
"No one really knows the answer to that," Eun-gi responded softly, her voice tinged with empathy and a touch of sadness. "But what's clear is that he hasn't stopped searching for them since that day. He misses them terribly—it's written all over him. He came to Seoul because he believes they might still be here, looking for any sign of them in the city."
Across the room, Jan Di stood by the kitchen counter, her back firmly turned towards the group gathered around the table. Her hands clutched the tea towel with such intensity that her knuckles had turned a stark white, betraying the anxiety that coursed through her. As she listened intently to their conversation, her breath hitched involuntarily, and she felt her heart pounding relentlessly against her ribs as if trying to escape the reality of the moment.
David is here, looking for me.
That unsettling thought sent a deep tremor of fear through her body, intertwining with a pang of heavy, aching guilt that weighed on her heart. For three long years, she had gone to great lengths to keep both herself and her son hidden away from David, running from a life that she had once wholeheartedly embraced but could no longer bear to face. In order to protect her child, she had completely transformed her life—altering her identity, forging new friendships, and relocating her home—each change executed with the sole purpose of ensuring her son was shielded from the dangerous world she had willingly left behind. She had buried that segment of her past, believing it was safely tucked away, but now it felt as though it was surging back to the surface, threatening to disrupt the fragile peace she had fought so hard to maintain.
…
"I heard he treats her like a queen," Eun-gi continued, her voice soft and filled with a wistful sigh that lingered in the air. "Even after all this time, despite all the challenges they've faced, he's never given up on them. He still loves her deeply and truly, as if no amount of time could diminish his feelings for her."
"I didn't know you had a crush on David Andrews," Ga Eul teased playfully, raising an eyebrow in mock surprise, a smirk dancing on her lips as she leaned closer to Eun-gi.
"It's not a crush," Eun-gi replied dramatically, pressing her hand to her chest as if the mere thought of it was too much to bear. "It's romance, pure and simple. The kind of love that people dream of, the kind that inspires stories and makes hearts flutter."
Ji Hoo, still frowning in contemplation, leaned back in his chair, his brow furrowed in thought. His mind was racing, piecing together the various bits of information they had gathered. "If we could help him find his wife, perhaps he'd be willing to invest in the hospital," he proposed thoughtfully, his voice steady as he spoke. Jun Pyo and Jae Kyung exchanged glances and nodded in agreement, clearly supportive of his suggestion.
Jan Di felt her heart plummet deep into her chest. In a swift motion, she turned away from the kitchen counter, her face drained of color yet her voice remained unwavering. "You won't find them," she said softly, locking eyes with Ji Hoo. "But I can help you get the investment you need."
The atmosphere shifted dramatically as all eyes turned toward her, their expressions a mix of surprise and curiosity at this unexpected turn in the dialogue.
Ji Hoo's brow furrowed in confusion, his uncertainty palpable. "How?" he questioned, searching her face for answers.
Jan Di took a deep breath, swallowing hard as her nerves threatened to unravel like a tightly wound ball of yarn. She realized she couldn't run away from this situation forever; she had to confront it head-on. Slowly, she began to fill a mug with jasmine tea—the very tea that David had always loved. Her hands moved with purpose and precision as she prepared a meal, layering crispy flatbread with creamy mashed potatoes and rich cheese, just like she used to when they were together in happier times. Memories of their shared laughter and warmth flooded her mind, but she firmly pushed them aside, determined to focus on the task at hand.
With careful attention, she added a neatly folded tornado omelet over a bed of steamed rice, drizzling it with a savory sauce and pairing it with a refreshing side of pina colada juice. The familiar scents wafted through the air, evoking bittersweet memories, but she steeled herself against the onslaught of emotions. Once she had everything meticulously packed into a pristine lunchbox, she took a deep breath and walked over to Ji Hoo, placing the carefully assembled meal right in front of him.
"I want you to take this meal," she stated, her voice steady despite the frantic beating of her heart inside her chest. "And I want you to take my son with you."
"Pumpkin?" Ji Hoo blinked in confusion, trying to process her request.
"Yes," Jan Di clarified, her gaze unwavering. "I need you to take him with you to David Andrews' office. He'll help you secure the investment."
Ji Hoo stared at her, bewildered by the unexpected request. Ga Eul, Yi Jeong, and Woo Bin exchanged glances, their expressions mirroring the confusion that hung thick in the air.
"You want me to take your son to David Andrews?" Ji Hoo asked, disbelief evident in his tone. "How is that going to help?"
"Trust me," Jan Di replied, her voice thick with the emotions she was desperately trying to keep at bay. Crouching down, she called out, "Pumpkin, come here! I need you!" The urgency in her voice echoed through the room as she braced herself for the next steps in this unexpected plan.
Her six-year-old son came bounding into the room with boundless energy, his face lighting up with pure excitement at the thought of the adventure that awaited them. Jan Di quickly kneeled down in front of him, taking a moment to smooth his tousled hair and adjust his slightly rumpled clothes, her hands trembling just a bit as she did so, betraying the anxiety that churned within her.
"Listen to me very carefully," she whispered, her heart breaking with every word that left her lips. "Today, you're going to meet your father for the first time after three years of not seeing him. But you must promise me that you won't tell Uncle Ji Hoo about this, okay? Just remember to smile and be brave, no matter what happens. When your father sees you, he'll understand that we're safe and sound."
David Junior's innocent eyes widened as he processed her words, a serious expression settling on his young face as he nodded solemnly in agreement. "I'll give him a kiss for you, Mommy," he said, his voice filled with sincerity.
Jan Di felt her heart twist painfully at his innocent response, but she fought to maintain her composure and forced a smile for her son, leaning down to kiss his forehead softly. "That's my brave boy," she said, her voice warm and encouraging, hoping to instill a sense of courage in him as they prepared for the day ahead. She wanted him to feel strong and confident, even amidst the uncertainty that loomed over them.
As Ji Hoo and Pumpkin got ready to leave, Jan Di found herself standing motionless in the doorway, unable to tear her gaze away from them as they walked away. A tumultuous feeling gripped her heart, a swirl of fear and hope intertwining within her chest. With every step they took, it felt as if the conclusion of one chapter was being written, while simultaneously, the unsettling beginning of another was looming ominously on the horizon. Would David, upon seeing his child, recognize their son immediately? Would Ji Hoo become aware of the unfolding events that could change everything? The thought weighed heavily on her. I am truly sorry, David. I apologize for my actions because sending Pumpkin to be with you is the only solution I can find that might help calm your troubled mind and allow you to take care of yourself once more. It is my sincere wish that you can find it within your heart to forgive me for making such a difficult decision.
And most importantly, would this desperate and uncertain gamble finally provide Ji Hoo with the investment he so desperately needed? Moreover, would it bring Jan Di face-to-face with the man she had left behind, the man whose presence had once meant so much to her? The uncertainty of it all hung thick in the air, adding to the weight of the moment.
Ji Hoo's car glided smoothly through the bustling streets of Seoul, the rhythmic hum of the engine blending with the sounds of the vibrant city around him. His hands gripped the steering wheel tightly, a reflection of the unease swirling in his mind. Occasionally, he cast a glance at David Junior, who sat in the passenger seat, swinging his little legs back and forth with infectious energy while humming a cheerful tune under his breath. The boy's carefree spirit seemed to lighten the atmosphere inside the car, but despite this, Ji Hoo couldn't shake the nagging feeling of apprehension that clung to him.
Jan Di's instructions had been puzzling and somewhat unsettling. The very idea of bringing her son to meet the Emperor's office—a man they had never encountered before, someone who didn't even know Ji Hoo personally—felt almost surreal and far-fetched. Yet, beneath his doubts, Ji Hoo found a flicker of trust in Jan Di. She had always been the voice of reason in their complicated lives, and if she believed that this meeting would somehow help their situation, he felt he had no choice but to place his faith in her judgment.
David Junior sat contentedly with a lunchbox nestled securely on his lap, the meal thoughtfully prepared by his mother. His face lit up with excitement, a bright smile illuminating his innocent features. Ji Hoo couldn't help but return the smile, even as his mind raced with a torrent of questions. Who exactly was David Andrews to Jan Di? What connection did he share with her that warranted such an important meeting? And why would introducing her son to him suddenly unlock the much-needed funding for the hospital that had become a beacon of hope for so many?
As they approached the towering glass building that housed Andrews Enterprises—the largest corporation in the world, eclipsing even Shinhwa Group, which had once felt like the pinnacle of power—Ji Hoo's heart began to pound in his chest. The structure loomed over the surrounding buildings like an imposing symbol of ultimate authority, sleek and modern, its reflective surface catching the sunlight and casting a dazzling glow. The name "Andrews" shone in bold letters on the top floor, a constant reminder of the man who resided within.
Ji Hoo parked the car at the entrance, his heart thudding a little harder at the sight of the building. He stole a glance at David Junior, who appeared completely unfazed by the towering structure before him, his youthful innocence shielding him from the weight of the moment.
…
"Are you ready, Pumpkin?" Ji Hoo asked, forcing a smile to mask his rising anxiety as he tried to project confidence.
David Junior looked up at him, his eyes sparkling with enthusiasm. "Mommy says I'll be okay. She said he was nice. Like a prince in a fairytale." The boy's words hung in the air, filled with a childlike hope that tugged at Ji Hoo's heartstrings.
Ji Hoo raised an eyebrow at the comparison. A prince? David Andrews had a well-earned reputation for being ruthless, a cold businessman known for his cutthroat tactics and little time for sentimentality. How could Jan Di be so certain that this man would be kind and welcoming?
"Okay, let's go inside. But I think I'll wait out here," Ji Hoo said, his nerves suddenly kicking in as he realized the gravity of the situation. He understood that this wasn't his meeting to attend; it was something much deeper, something intensely personal. He felt a strong sense of protectiveness wash over him, recognizing that he didn't belong in that office when David Andrews saw his son for the first time in three long years. The thought of being a mere spectator to such a momentous reunion filled him with a mix of anxiety and determination.
They stepped out of the car, the engine purring softly as it idled nearby, and Ji Hoo took a moment to adjust his jacket before he escorted David Junior toward the imposing front doors of Andrews Enterprises. The building loomed ahead, a testament to success and ambition, its glass facade reflecting the bright sunlight. As they approached, a sleek, impeccably dressed receptionist greeted them with a warm smile, though her gaze flicked curiously to the small boy standing confidently at Ji Hoo's side. "Do you have an appointment?" she asked politely, her tone professional yet friendly.
David Junior, brimming with enthusiasm, piped up without hesitation, holding up the carefully packed lunchbox that had been prepared with love. "I'm here to deliver lunch to Mr. Andrews," he declared proudly, his little face lighting up with the joy of his important mission. "My mommy made it."
The receptionist blinked in surprise at the unexpected sight of a young boy delivering lunch, but she didn't question the situation. Instead, she quickly reached for her earpiece, murmuring something under her breath as she communicated with someone in the building. After a brief moment, she nodded, her demeanor shifting back to professionalism. "Mr. Andrews' office is located on the top floor. I'll escort you up there personally," she informed them, her voice smooth and reassuring.
Ji Hoo kneeled down beside David Junior, making sure to meet his eyes. "You'll be fine, right? Just remember what your mom said before you came here," he encouraged, his voice gentle yet firm, wanting to instill confidence in the young boy.
David Junior nodded eagerly, his eyes sparkling with excitement and determination. "I remember. Don't worry, Uncle Ji Hoo," he replied, his voice filled with an innocent assurance that made Ji Hoo smile, even amidst his own swirling thoughts.
The receptionist then guided David Junior toward the elevator, her hand resting lightly on his shoulder as they walked. Ji Hoo stood back for a moment, watching intently as the elevator doors slid closed, sealing the boy away from view as he began his ascent to meet his father for the very first time. A knot of tension twisted in Ji Hoo's stomach, a mix of anxiety and hope, and for a fleeting moment, he considered running
after him, to ensure everything would be alright. But deep down, he knew he had to trust Jan Di's instincts.
She had sent her son to this pivotal moment for a reason, believing wholeheartedly that David Junior was ready for this encounter.
Meanwhile, high above in his vast, luxurious office, David Andrews sat behind an imposing glass desk, his sharp gaze laser-focused on the financial reports laid out in front of him. The office exuded a sleek and minimalist design, with floor-to-ceiling windows that offered an expansive, panoramic view of the bustling city below. It was a space that truly befit the Emperor of business—a man who wielded power with such precision that he could control entire empires and sway global markets with just a single, well-calculated decision.
However, no matter how mighty and powerful the surroundings appeared, David couldn't quite shake off the deep, empty, and gnawing feeling that resided in his chest. It had been three long years since his wife and son had mysteriously disappeared from his life, and despite the vast fortunes he had amassed and the numerous high-stakes deals he had expertly closed, that void in his heart remained a wound that refused to heal.
He had embarked on an unrelenting search, employing every resource, every contact, and every connection at his disposal in an attempt to find them, yet they had vanished without a trace. His latest lead had taken him to Seoul, a city that held cherished memories for him—a place he had once loved deeply due to the fact that it was the place where he first met her—his wife—the girl that saved him and now hoped would somehow bridge the gap between him and the family he so dearly missed.
Just as he was lost in his thoughts, deep within the whirlwind of emotions and business decisions, there was a firm knock on his office door.
"Come in," David instructed, his voice projecting firmness and steadiness, though his mind remained distracted by the haunting memories and unfulfilled desires.
The door swung open, and the receptionist walked in with her usual professional demeanor, followed closely by a small boy who was carrying a bright lunchbox in hand. At first, David's eyes barely flickered toward them—children were not an uncommon sight in the building; they often belonged to executives who would bring their kids along to visit their parents during lunch or after school. But when the boy stepped fully into the light, revealing his innocent face and hopeful eyes, something deep within David abruptly froze and stirred a sense of recognition he couldn't quite place.
…
The boy looked up at him with wide, curious eyes that sparkled with innocence and wonder, a bright grin spreading across his cherubic face, illuminating the small space around him like sunshine. "Hello!" the boy exclaimed joyfully, raising the lunchbox high into the air, his pride evident in his stance. "My mommy made you lunch!"
David's heart stopped, a sudden jolt racing through him. His breath caught in his throat as he fixated on the child standing before him. This was no ordinary boy. The child had her eyes—those familiar, enchanting eyes that he had admired countless times before. The same soft, dark hair framed a face that echoed memories long held. And that smile, so unmistakably shared—it was the same, the one that always made his heart skip.
For what felt like an eternity, David found himself rendered speechless, a state of disbelief enveloping him. His hands trembled ever so slightly as he rose uncertainly from behind his desk, his eyes locked onto the boy's innocent face. "What… what did you say?" he managed to stammer, his voice roughened by the unexpected flood of emotions surging within him.
"My mommy made you lunch," the boy repeated with an enthusiastic cheerfulness that seemed to fill the room with warmth. "She said you'd like it. Jasmine tea and tornado rice omelet. It's your favorite, right?"
The impact of those words crashed over David like a wave, overwhelming him with memories. Jasmine tea. Tornado rice omelet. Such simple phrases carried profound significance, reminding him of cozy afternoons spent enjoying meals prepared by one special person—one person who exclusively knew how to make them precisely to his liking.
As the realization struck him, his knees nearly buckled beneath the weight of the moment. He gradually crouched down to meet the boy at eye level, the world around him fading into a blur. "Who… who's your mother?" he whispered, though deep down he already knew the answer that resided within his heart. His heart pounded furiously in his chest, each beat resonating with a mixture of hope and fear.
The boy tilted his head to the side, as if the answer was the simplest thing in the world, one that required no further explanation. "My mommy is Geum Jan Di," he announced proudly, his smile beaming as brightly as the sun. "And I'm David Junior. But Mommy calls me Pumpkin."
In that infinite moment, the world seemed to halt, time suspended in disbelief and wonder. David stared at the boy—his son—his vision blurring as tears started to form and gather in his eyes. The overwhelming wave of emotions surged within him, crashing through in cycles—shock, disbelief, and above all, an insurmountable depth of love and relief that threatened to swallow him whole.
For what felt like ages, he was unable to articulate his thoughts, paralyzed by the enormity of the moment. Finally, with unsteady hands, David reached out, gently resting them on his son's small, delicate shoulders. "Pumpkin," he whispered the name with reverence, his voice thick and heavy with an emotion he could barely contain. "You're really here."
David Junior, blissfully unaware of the tempest of feelings surging within his father, smiled radiantly and leaned forward, pressing a soft, sweet kiss to David's cheek. "Mommy said I should give you a kiss for her," he said, a simple gesture that brought forth a flood of warmth.
David closed his eyes momentarily, letting that tender action anchor him amidst the chaos of his emotions, as the tears he had been holding at bay finally spilled over, cascading down his cheeks. He had found them—though perhaps they had found him first.
Suddenly, as the realization settled within him—the vast empire he had built, the immense fortune he had painstakingly amassed—it all felt utterly insignificant in comparison to the little boy standing before him, brimming with life and love. At that moment, everything shifted.
David Andrews felt his heart pounding fiercely in his chest as he cradled his son in his arms, his hands wrapping around David Junior's small, delicate body with a gentleness that genuinely surprised him. It was a sensation he had not anticipated, given the intensity of his emotions. He had spent three long years searching, yearning for this exact moment, and now that it had finally arrived, the reality of it washed over him like a tidal wave, an overwhelming force that took his breath away and left him momentarily speechless.
David lifted his gaze, blinking back the tears that threatened to spill and cloud his vision. His eyes fell on the receptionist, who was still standing by the door, her wide eyes reflecting a mixture of surprise and uncertainty about what to do in this deeply personal moment. He quickly composed himself, forcing a breath to steady his racing heart as he rose to his feet, still holding David Junior close against him, feeling the warmth radiating from his son.
"Could you… could you give us a moment?" David asked softly, his voice breaking the heavy silence that enveloped the room. He tried to steady himself to regain some semblance of control, but the torrent of emotions coursing through him was simply too overwhelming to contain. It felt as if a dam had broken, allowing everything he had kept bottled up for so long to surge forth.
The receptionist, sensing the profound weight of the moment unfolding before her, nodded quickly, her demeanor shifting to one of understanding. "Of course, Mr. Andrews," she said, her voice respectful but tinged with a hint of surprise at the depth of emotion she was witnessing. She quietly backed out of the office, closing the door behind her with a soft click, leaving father and son alone in the spacious room that suddenly felt both vast and intimate.
As the door clicked shut, David let out a breath he hadn't realized he was holding—a sigh of relief mixed with disbelief. He looked down at David Junior, who was now nestled comfortably in his arms, his small face pressed against his father's shoulder, seeking solace in the embrace. The boy's innocent, trusting gaze met his own, and in that moment, for the first time in years, David felt a warmth blossoming within him, a feeling he hadn't known was possible. It was as if all the pain and longing of the past three years had melted away, replaced by a profound sense of love and connection that filled the space between them.
"My boy," David whispered, his voice thick with overwhelming emotion that seemed to swell in his chest. "I can't believe it… You're really here." He held his son tightly in his arms, as though fearing that if he let go, this precious moment might slip away like a fleeting dream, vanishing into the ether. He buried his face in David Junior's soft, fragrant hair, inhaling the comforting scent of his child, and a deep, almost painful sense of relief washed over him like a warm tide. "When you left, you were still so small and couldn't even talk, and now you've grown into such a big boy," he whispered, tears of joy glistening in his eyes, blurring his vision as he gazed down at the child he had longed for.
David Junior looked up at him, his small hands clutching tightly to his father's suit jacket, as if seeking reassurance. "Daddy, are you okay?" he asked, his voice full of innocent curiosity, completely unaware of the storm of emotions swirling inside his father's heart, a tempest of joy and pain intermingling in a way that only a parent could understand.
David nodded, forcing a smile through the tears that still clung to his eyes like dew on a blade of grass. "I'm more than okay, Pumpkin," he said, his voice cracking slightly under the weight of his feelings. "I've been waiting so long to see you, to hold you close again."
The boy's innocent face lit up with a bright, radiant smile that seemed to illuminate the room. "Mommy said you missed us," David Junior said, his voice filled with the simple, honest truth that only a child could convey, a truth so pure that it pierced David's heart even more deeply.
At the mention of Jan Di, David felt a pang of longing. His heart ached at the thought of her—he had missed her—missed them both—more than he could ever articulate in mere words. Every single day without them had been a relentless battle, a fight to keep his life together while his heart felt like it was slowly shattering into a million pieces. And now, here was his son, the living proof that they were still out there, that they were safe and sound. But the question lingered painfully in his mind: why had they left? Why had Jan Di taken their son and vanished without a trace, leaving him to grapple with the silence of their absence?
He lifted David Junior higher in his arms, feeling the warmth of his small body against him, and pressed a soft, tender kiss to his forehead. "I missed you so much, Pumpkin. More than you'll ever know," David murmured, his voice trembling with a mix of love and emotion. He couldn't stop staring at his son, taking in every detail—the brightness of his eyes, the adorable little nose, the way his smile mirrored Jan Di's so perfectly. It was as though David was seeing a piece of her, too, after all these long, lonely years apart.
David walked slowly across the office, carrying David Junior with him, their footsteps echoing softly in the spacious room, and settled into one of the plush chairs near the large window. The sprawling city stretched out below them, a sea of buildings and bustling life, but all David could see was the little boy in his arms, the embodiment of his hopes and dreams. He sat down, pulling his son into his lap, and for a moment, they just stayed there, enveloped in a cocoon of silence, the air between them filled with the weight of unspoken love and the bond that had been forged in the absence of words.
"I brought you lunch!" David Junior suddenly remembered, his eyes sparkling with excitement as he held up the lunchbox his mother had lovingly packed for them. "Mommy made all your favorite things! Jasmine tea, flatbread, and a tornado omelet!" His voice was a melody of joy, a sweet reminder of the simple pleasures that life could bring.
David smiled, his heart swelling at the thought of Jan Di's careful preparation, her love woven into every detail. She still remembered his favorite foods and still thought about the small details that made him feel cherished and loved. It was more than just a meal; it was a message from her, a message that maybe, just maybe, she wasn't as far away from him as he had feared, that there was still a connection between them despite the distance that had grown.
"She remembered," David whispered to himself, his chest tightening with emotion as he gently took the lunchbox from his son's eager hands. He opened it, and the familiar aroma of jasmine tea and crispy flatbread wafted through the air, filling his senses with nostalgia. For a moment, it felt like he was transported back to the life they had once shared, the life he had lost and longed for every single day.
David Junior watched him with wide, expectant eyes, filled with hope and excitement. "Mommy said you'd like it!" he said proudly, his small voice breaking the emotional silence that had settled between them like a warm blanket.
David nodded, his throat tight with emotion as he looked at his son, feeling an overwhelming surge of love and gratitude. "I love it, Pumpkin. It's perfect," he said softly, reaching out to ruffle the boy's hair affectionately. He took a sip of the tea, savoring the familiar taste that carried with it memories of a time before everything had fallen apart, a taste that reminded him of laughter, love, and the simple joys they had shared as a family.
…
But there was one question that weighed heavily on his mind, a question that he couldn't ignore any longer, no matter how hard he tried. It had been gnawing at him, lingering in the back of his thoughts like an unwelcome guest. With a heavy sigh, he set the lunchbox aside, the sound of it clattering softly against the table drawing his full attention to David Junior. He looked at his son with an expression that was both gentle and serious, a mix of warmth and gravity that he hoped would convey the importance of the conversation they were about to have.
"Pumpkin," David began slowly, his voice steady as he carefully chose his words, weighing each one as if it were a precious stone. "Why did you and Mommy go away? Why did you leave me behind?"
The boy blinked up at him with wide, innocent eyes, the purity of his youth rendering him blissfully unaware of the deeper implications and emotional weight behind his father's question. "Mommy said we had to," he answered simply, his tone light and unburdened. "She said we had to keep safe."
David's heart twisted painfully at those words, the simple truth of them cutting deeper than he had anticipated. Safe. What had Jan Di been running from all this time? And why hadn't she trusted him enough to confide in him about it? Or perhaps, in a more troubling thought, she was running away from him for that very reason.
"Safe from what?" David asked, his voice barely above a whisper, almost as if he were afraid that speaking the question aloud would somehow make the reality of it all too stark to bear. His mind raced with a torrent of possibilities, each one darker than the last.
But David Junior only shrugged, his small shoulders rising and falling in a gesture of innocence, clearly not grasping the full scope of what his mother had been trying to protect them from. "I dunno. Mommy just said we had to go away for a little while. But she always missed you, Daddy. She talks about you all the time."
Hearing those words made David's heart swell and ache simultaneously. Tears stung his eyes once again, the familiar burn a reminder of the emotional turmoil he had been trying to navigate. Jan Di had missed him. She had thought about him even during the years they had been apart, despite the silence that had stretched between them like an unbridgeable chasm. But what had kept her from coming back to him? Why hadn't she reached out, even once? He had so many questions swirling in his mind, each one more pressing than the last, but he knew that his son didn't have the answers he so desperately sought. Perhaps his son spoke so much about his mother that he didn't know what to say when it came to the complexities of their situation.
Still holding David Junior close, David made a silent vow. He was going to find out the truth. He was going to find Jan Di, understand why she had left, and more than anything, he was going to make sure that this time they would never be separated again.
With his son still in his arms, David's resolve solidified. He wasn't just the Emperor of the business world—he was a father, and now that he had found his family, he wasn't going to let them slip away again.
David felt a sharp tug at his heart as Ji Hoo's name slipped from his son David Junior's lips. The overwhelming shock of seeing his son after so many long years had initially clouded his thoughts, leaving him momentarily speechless. But now, as the initial surprise began to fade, he was starting to piece together the fragments of this unexpected reunion. How had his son come to be here in his office after all this time apart? Questions swirled in his mind, and as his pulse quickened with a mix of anxiety and excitement, a soft smile began to tug at his lips. He gently brushed a stray lock of hair away from David Junior's forehead, savoring the moment of connection.
"Uncle Ji Hoo brought you here?" David asked, his voice gentle and warm, imbued with both curiosity and affection. He wanted to draw his son out to understand the circumstances that had led to this remarkable encounter.
David Junior's eyes sparkled with excitement as he nodded vigorously, his enthusiasm palpable. "Yeah! Mommy packed me a big lunch, and Uncle Ji Hoo said it would help with his hospital," the boy explained in his usual enthusiastic, hurried manner, his words tumbling out in a rush. "He's waiting outside! He's really nice, Daddy. Can you help him with the… uh…" His small face scrunched up in concentration as he struggled to find the right word, but then his eyes lit up with clarity. "The investment! For his hospital!"
David chuckled softly, his heart swelling with a complex mix of emotions—joy, pride, and a hint of nostalgia. He leaned down, pressing a tender kiss to the top of his son's head, feeling the warmth of their bond. This wasn't just a casual visit; his son had come with a purpose, a mission that was far more significant than merely delivering a lunch. He was here to assist Ji Hoo with something that could have a lasting impact.
"Investment for the hospital," David murmured, thinking aloud as he processed the implications of this unexpected revelation. He had seen countless proposals throughout his career, many of which sought his wealth and influence for various ventures. But this situation felt different—this request came through Ji Hoo, the very man who had unwittingly brought his son back into his life after all these years. The realization stirred something deep within David, igniting a sense of responsibility and connection. It wasn't just about business anymore; it was deeply personal, intertwining the threads of his family and his professional life in a way he had never anticipated.
…
His thoughts drifted momentarily to the bond shared between Ji Hoo and Jan Di—an unspoken connection that had always been palpable, lingering just beneath the surface despite the absence of verbal acknowledgment. It was a relationship that had quietly shaped their lives, and now, Ji Hoo had, perhaps without realizing it, played a pivotal role in bridging a significant gap in David's own life by bringing his son back to him. Ji Hoo had consistently been a calm and reassuring presence in Jan Di's world, a steadfast figure who offered support and understanding. Today, however, he had unexpectedly woven himself into the fabric of David's life as well, becoming an integral part of this momentous reunion.
As David looked down at his son, a wave of emotions washed over him—emotions he had not experienced in what felt like an eternity. The sight of his boy brought forth not only an overwhelming sense of love and joy but also a profound feeling of responsibility that settled heavily on his shoulders. He felt a deep sense of gratitude toward Ji Hoo for his unknowing contribution to this reunion, even if Ji Hoo himself had no awareness of just how impactful his actions had been in reuniting father and son.
"Pumpkin," David said softly, his voice filled with warmth as he lifted his son slightly so their eyes could meet. "How about you stay right here for a little while, okay? I need to go have a talk with Uncle Ji Hoo. We'll see what we can do to help with his hospital. Does that sound good to you?"
David Junior's face lit up with a radiant smile, his excitement evident as he nodded eagerly. "Yes, Daddy! He's really nice! And Mommy says he's a great doctor!" His enthusiasm was infectious, and David couldn't help but chuckle at his son's innocent joy, which filled the room with a sense of lightness.
David felt a swell of pride and affection for his boy, emotions that expanded within him like a warm embrace. "I'm sure he is," he replied gently, setting his son down carefully on the plush sofa, ensuring he was comfortable. "You stay right here, alright? I'll be back soon, I promise."
With one last lingering glance at his son, David straightened his suit jacket, smoothing out any creases as he prepared to step out. He turned toward the door, his heart racing with a mix of anticipation and anxiety, emotions swirling within him in a way they hadn't for many years. This encounter was not merely a professional meeting with Ji Hoo as a businessman; it was something far more significant. It was about connecting with the man who had, in a way he could not fully articulate, helped to restore a piece of his family that he thought he had lost forever.
As David stepped into the hallway, his gaze immediately landed on Ji Hoo, who was pacing anxiously near the receptionist's desk. Ji Hoo, a figure known for his typically calm and composed demeanor, appeared visibly tense this time. His hands were clasped tightly behind his back, a clear indicator of his agitation. The moment Ji Hoo caught sight of David, he froze in place, quickly gathering himself, as if bracing for an impending confrontation.
"Mr. Andrews," Ji Hoo greeted him with a respectful bow, his voice formal yet tinged with an underlying tension that was hard to miss. The strain of the countless weeks he had spent trying to secure this crucial meeting was evident in his eyes, which betrayed a mixture of hope and anxiety.
David took a moment to study Ji Hoo, recognizing the considerable effort it had taken for him to reach this point. "Yoon Ji Hoo," he replied softly, his tone imbued with a weight that went beyond mere business matters. He glanced back toward the office, where his son was waiting, and then returned his gaze to Ji Hoo, sensing the gravity of the moment. "I believe we have something of great importance to discuss."
Ji Hoo's brow furrowed slightly, a flicker of curiosity and confusion passing across his expression. "Yes," he responded cautiously, still grappling with uncertainty about what David was alluding to. "I've been trying to reach you regarding the cancer ward expansion for the hospital. It's… absolutely crucial."
David nodded, letting out a slow breath as he attempted to balance the business proposal with the emotional weight of the situation at hand. "I understand the significance now," he said thoughtfully, contemplating the implications. "And I genuinely appreciate you bringing… my guest to me."
Ji Hoo blinked, momentarily taken aback by David's words. "Your guest?" he echoed, a hint of confusion crossing his face as he glanced toward the office door, trying to piece together the situation.
David offered a small, knowing smile, deliberately keeping the deeper truth just out of reach for the moment. "Yes, the young boy. He's waiting in my office," he explained, his tone light yet layered with meaning.
Ji Hoo's eyes widened in realization, his usually composed demeanor cracking just slightly as he processed this unexpected turn of events. "I… I didn't know," Ji Hoo admitted, his voice quiet and filled with a newfound sense of urgency. "Jan Di asked me to bring him. She said it would… help."
At the mention of Jan Di, David felt a tightening in his chest, but he pushed those feelings aside for the time being. He looked at Ji Hoo, his gratitude genuine and heavy in the air between them. "It helped more than you can imagine," David said, his voice soft but imbued with deep meaning. "You've done something far beyond what you initially intended."
Ji Hoo stood in silence, still grappling with the weight of the situation that had unfolded before him. He had come seeking an investment for the hospital, but now it felt as though he had stepped into a realm far more personal and profound than he could have ever anticipated.
David's voice broke the silence, steady and resolute, cutting through the tension that hung in the air. "I'll help with the hospital," he declared, his tone leaving no room for doubt or hesitation. "Not just because of the proposal you brought, but because of what you've done today. That's something I can never truly repay."
The surprise on Ji Hoo's face was unmistakable. He had spent weeks chasing this meeting, tirelessly working to make it happen, and now it had materialized in a way he hadn't expected at all. "Thank you," he said, his voice sincere and filled with a sense of relief that washed over him.
David nodded, his gaze drifting back toward the door that led to his son. "You've done more for me than you realize," he said quietly, his tone reflecting the depth of his appreciation. "And I owe you for that, more than I can articulate."
Ji Hoo, still absorbing the weight of David's words and the unexpected turn of events, simply nodded in response. He had initially come to discuss a business deal, but he was leaving with something far more profound and meaningful than he had anticipated.
"Let's discuss the hospital in more detail," David suggested after a thoughtful pause, gesturing toward the office where his son awaited. "We will sign the contract in two weeks' time, as I am quite busy at the moment." The words lingered in the silence, serving as a significant turning point in their conversation, a moment that held the power to influence their futures in ways that remained unknown to them at that time.